The Power of Positive Thinking: The Mentality of a True Athlete
As young athletes, one of the most powerful tools you have is your mindset. The way you think before, during, and after a game can make all the difference. One of the most important things I want you all to remember is this: always be positive, no matter what. Your brain believes what you tell it, so it’s crucial to speak words of encouragement to yourself, especially when things aren't going your way. Positive self-talk isn’t just a nice thing to do; it’s a game changer. It can be the difference between success and defeat, between giving up and pushing through. Let me share an example from when I was your age, as a player. There was one moment that taught me this lesson in a way I’ll never forget. I was young and playing in a penalty shootout. I had missed one penalty before, and it stuck with me. Every time I had to step up to take another, all I could think was, “I can’t miss. I can’t miss. I can’t miss.” I was terrified of failing, and every time, the pressure got to me. More often than not, I either missed the target completely or had my shot saved by the goalkeeper. It wasn’t until I was 14 that I realised what was happening. Instead of focusing on what I didn’t want to happen—missing the penalty—I changed my mindset. I started saying to myself, “I will score. I will score. I will score.” When I walked up to take that next penalty, my mind was focused on success, not fear. And guess what? The change was immediate. The confidence I gained from believing in myself allowed me to perform better, and I started making those penalties consistently. So here’s my advice to you: when you step onto the field, when you face a tough challenge or an important moment, replace the fear with confidence. Instead of saying to yourself “I can’t miss,” say “I will score.” Instead of doubting your abilities, believe in them. Your mindset shapes your actions, and with the right mentality, you can achieve greatness. Remember, no matter what happens, stay positive, believe in yourself, and keep pushing forward.